As Luke continues the story of the early church, he presents a very negative account within the early church. This account is framed by the selfless love and care for one another in the church (4:32-37) and the miraculous working of the apostles and unity of the congregation (5:12-16). The sacrificial giving for others climaxes with the account of Barnabas giving the money he had made in a sale of land. Ananias and his wife Sapphira also sold a piece of land and decided to donate only some of the proceeds for the poor; however, they also decided to say they were giving the entirety of the profit, while holding some back. This sin was challenged by Peter and brings the judgment of God on their sin. This produced the fear of God among this body of believers. Obviously, we must be careful not to try to deceive God, but the focus seems to be more of a desire to receive honor and recognition for their gift, while keeping some back. We must also guard against a desire for recognition and accolades in the church. This kind of action does not appropriately characterize the relationships that should define believers in the church.

Acts is a unique book in our New Testament, because it is the only book of history that we are given. As Luke writes, a second edition to his gospel, he continues with two vital themes – first, that Jesus offers salvation to men and second, that this work – the mission is accomplished – in the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus had already instructed his disciples about the Holy Spirit and his ongoing ministry to them and all who would come to believe in Jesus. Despite the obvious focus on the ministry of the Holy Spirit in Acts, this book is about Jesus. Throughout Acts, Jesus is described as Lord (the most common title for Jesus in Acts), Jesus (67x), Christ (25x), Servant, Holy One, Just One, a Prophet like Moses, Savior, Son of God, Son of Man, Author of Life, Judge, Man and God. There is absolutely no question that Acts is the continuing account of all that Jesus began to do and to teach as presented in the gospel of Luke. The outline of Acts is very straightforward: Witnesses in Jerusalem (1-7), Witnesses in Judaea & Samaria (8-12), and Witnesses to the ends of the earth (13-28). Luke focuses throughout on this truth: You will receive power from the Holy Spirit and be my witnesses to the ends of the earth. May God strengthen us to be effective witnesses for Jesus.

Graceway Church of Michiana exists in South Bend, IN for the purpose of Exalting our great God and Savior, Edifying and Encouraging believers and Engaging our Community. 

Graceway Church is committed to being a God Exalting, Christ Centered, Spirit Motivated, Word Focused local body of Believers!